Article

On January 13, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors will review proposed regulations for large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) in unincorporated areas. The draft ordinance aims to amend the county's General Plan and County Code to allow BESS facilities near existing electrical transmission substations, excluding the coastal zone.

Recommendations include initiating an environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act. Proposed requirements involve 300-foot setbacks from residences, enhanced access for emergency responders, noise limits, and a dedicated water supply.

Developers must use best available technology, conduct soil and water testing, and provide a decommissioning plan. The proposal also addresses agricultural impacts with a 3-to-1 replacement ratio for resources. The board is not expected to adopt an ordinance at this meeting, with a status report planned for August and recommendations for adoption by November.